READ | ASEAN Consensus: the non-binding pact that shows ‘strong commitment’ to protect migrant workers

November 15, 2017 - 9:21 AM
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Leaders of ASEAN member-states, led by this year's chairman President Rodrigo Duterte, pose for a group portrait after signing the ASEAN Consensus. (photo from ASEAN website)

MANILA, Philippines — The recently signed ASEAN Consensus on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers may be non-binding, but the regional bloc says the “living and evolving document” shows its “political will and strong commitment” to safeguard the rights of migrant workers.

Leaders of the 10 ASEAN member-states signed the document, touted as the “centerpiece” of the Philippines’ chairmanship of ASEAN, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City Tuesday night, November 14.

The 22-page enumerates the fundamental and specific rights of migrant workers and the obligations of countries sending out and hosting them.

“We now look forward to the meaningful implementation of this landmark document by ASEAN member-states and call for support from all stakeholders to this important journey ahead of us,” ASEAN secretary general Le Luong Minh said.

The ASEAN Committee on Migrant Workers is expected to begin developing an action plan to implement the Consensus.

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